Help for kid (13) with 50 gallon tank - easiest fish for him

[gingerbaker]

So my brother decided to buy my nephew a fish tank after over a year of asking. Why 50 gallons? It's my old one that I used to grow out betta fry.

Anyway I am asking for suggestions on easy fish for a 13-year-old to look after for a 50-gallon tank. He's responsible & all but at the same time he's 13 and I don't want fragile fish that'll pass away if the water's not changed for say two or three days extra (his dad won't let it sit there but dad's working).

 

[fish48]

zebra danios a good beginners fish tough as old boots

 

[Byron]

It would benefit knowing the parameters of the source (tap) water, especially GH (general hardness). Many young aquarists end up with fish requiring harder or softer water than what comes out of the tap, and fish get sick and die which is discouraging to say the least.

Also, has the substrate material been acquired/decided on? Play sand works for all fish, and some like the cory catfish need this so it is a better option than gravel.

 

[PheonixKingZ]

Water hardness is definitely something we need to know.

A 13 can manage a healthy aquarium, as long as he puts in the time and dedication.